Consumers Energy Moving to Develop Renewable Energy with Community Solar Program in Michigan

JACKSON, Mich., Aug. 17, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Consumers Energy is moving forward with plans to add new sources of renewable energy in Michigan, launching its community solar program called Solar Gardens.

Solar Gardens is the first program of its kind for Consumers Energy, and customers will be able to participate. Grand Valley State University in Ottawa County and Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo County are potential sites for solar facilities that could start operating next year.

"We are excited to be making progress as we seek to develop new sources of renewable energy," said Tim Sparks, Consumers Energy's vice president for energy supply operations. "We look forward to watching Solar Gardens grow as we continue our relationship with Michigan residents to protect and preserve the environment."

Consumers Energy customers can start enrolling in the Solar Gardens program later this year. They can express interest and learn more about how to support solar energy online at www.ConsumersEnergy.com/solargardens.

Consumers Energy has been active in developing renewable energy sources in Michigan. Last year, the company reached its target of generating 10 percent of its electricity from renewable sources a year ahead of schedule. That includes two wind farms, one near Lake Michigan and one in the Thumb, and contracts to buy electricity generated by wind, landfill gas, anaerobic digestion and hydroelectric generation.

Consumers Energy, Michigan's largest utility, is the principal subsidiary of CMS Energy (NYSE: CMS), providing natural gas and electricity to 6.6 million of the state's 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties.

This news release contains "forward-looking statements." The forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause Consumers Energy's results to differ materially. All forward-looking statements should be considered in the context of the risk and other factors detailed from time to time in Consumers Energy's Securities and Exchange Commission filings.